Novel Embedded Metrology Instruments for the Light Controlled Factory

This is an exciting research opportunity for a fully funded PhD Studentship linked to the Light Controlled Factory (LCF) research project that is funded by EPSRC and industry. A related PhD is also available in the Department of Mechanical Engineering.

The LCF is investigating and developing novel measurement-enabled manufacturing technologies for realising the next generation of high value manufacturing factories. The vision is for the widespread adoption of novel, measurement-based techniques to provide machines and parts with aspects of temporal, spatial and dimensional self-awareness, enabling superior machine control and parts verification. The research consortium is led by the University of Bath with participation from University College London and Loughborough University, in collaboration with nine industry partners including Airbus, Airbus Defence and Space, and Rolls-Royce.

PhD Topic – Novel Embedded Metrology Instruments for the Light Controlled Factory (Supervisors W. Wadsworth and Prof Maropoulos)
This PhD topic will seek to develop novel photonic techniques and instrumentation for absolute distance measurement using interferometry or coherence methods for large scale assembly factories. Product and tooling structures often make direct measurement of the key assembly characteristics impossible. By embedding localised metrology, such as lasers and LVDTs within structures, it will be possible to utilise the assembly structure to extract direct measurement data for all key "jig to part" interfaces. Large distances can be divided down with high precision using stable pulsed lasers and the remaining discrepancies ascertained by spectral interferometry of widely dispersed broadband pulses. Technical challenges include; (i) the design and validation of the electromechanical interfaces of the laser and optics with the structural elements, (ii) the miniaturisation of the photonic components, and (iii) the optical fibre distribution of a single laser to multiple metrology paths within a jig. Benefits include improved measurement accuracy and the elimination of line of sight constraints of external optical methods. The research will take place in the Department of Physics in collaboration with the Department of Mechanical Engineering.